Lohmann: NW May See Some Relief From Hot Dry Weather

The spring of 2019 has not felt much like spring, with temperatures in the 90's reported at several locations across the region, and extremely low humidity.  Marilyn Lohmann with the National Weather Service said it’s not abnormal to see a few hot days from time to time, but for it to be this warm, and this dry, this long is unusual.

“Temperatures over the past month to 60 days have been 1-5 degrees above normal, with temperatures this past week even 10-15 degrees above normal.  So, just a very warm period.”

Lohmann said these warm temperatures have pushed soil temperatures up considerably, with some readings into the low 70's.  But, the soil moisture is very concerning.

“There is a concerned for increased wildfires especially in northern and central Washington, and even the westside of Washington due to this prolonged dry period and then some lower snowpack numbers for the mountains over the winter and spring.  But there have been a few wildfires already this year in locations across our region.”

Lohmann said the Northwest could see some relief roll into the area.  She said we’ll see a low pressure system roll in Wednesday, bringing in clouds, cooler temps and a chance of rain.  She says some areas could see anywhere from ¼” to ¾” of rain.

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